The Post

Main Plot

The Post follows the true story of journalists at The Washington Post as they grapple with the decision to publish classified documents known as the Pentagon Papers. These documents reveal the U.S. government's secrets regarding the Vietnam War, exposing a pattern of deception that spans multiple administrations. As the newspaper's leadership faces legal and ethical dilemmas, they must navigate the tension between national security and the public's right to know. The film highlights the challenges of investigative journalism, the importance of a free press, and the personal and professional risks involved in uncovering the truth. Amidst political pressure and threats of censorship, the team rallies to stand up for their principles, ultimately aiming to hold power accountable and inform the American public about the realities of the war.

Characters

• Meryl Streep plays Katharine Graham, the first female publisher of a major American newspaper, who decides to publish the Pentagon Papers, challenging the government.
• Tom Hanks plays Ben Bradlee, the executive editor of The Washington Post, who pushes to publish the Pentagon Papers, challenging government secrets and press freedom.
• Sarah Paulson plays Tony Bradlee, wife of Ben Bradlee, the editor of The Washington Post. She supports her husband during the publication of the Pentagon Papers.

Ending Explained

In The Post, the ending centers around the pivotal decision made by the Washington Post to publish the Pentagon Papers, a classified government report detailing the United States' political and military involvement in Vietnam. After a tense legal battle and significant pressure from government officials, the newspaper's leadership ultimately chooses to prioritize the public's right to know over potential legal repercussions. The climax unfolds as the Supreme Court rules in favor of the press, affirming the First Amendment rights and allowing the Post to proceed with publication. This moment not only serves as a victory for the newspaper but also symbolizes a broader triumph for journalistic integrity and freedom of the press. The film concludes with the Post's publication of the Pentagon Papers, highlighting the importance of transparency in democracy. The resolution of the main conflict—whether to publish sensitive information that could have dire consequences—reflects the overarching narrative about the struggles faced by journalists in the pursuit of truth. The ending reinforces the theme of courage in the face of adversity, showcasing how the decision to reveal the truth can have far-reaching implications for society and governance.